AMC-UAP-1947, FLYING DISC INVESTIGATION, PROJECT SIGN ORIGINS, WRIGHT FIELD

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PAGE 1

memo

A memorandum from the Air Materiel Command to the Chief of Staff of the U.S. Air Force regarding the ongoing collection and analysis of reports on 'Flying Discs'.

HqAMC Form No. 10-514 (Rev 10 Sep 46)

SECRET

HEADQUARTERS
AIR MATERIEL COMMAND

IN REPLY ADDRESS BOTH
COMMUNICATION AND EN-
VELOPE TO COMMANDING
GENERAL, AIR MATERIEL
COMMAND, ATTENTION
FOLLOWING OFFICE SYMBOL:

TSDIN

TSDIN/HMM/ig/6-4100
WRIGHT FIELD, DAYTON, OHIO

DEC 1 9 1947

SUBJECT: Flying Discs

TO: Chief of Staff
United States Air Force
Washington 25, D. C.
ATTENTION: Director, Research & Development
Major General L. C. Craigie

1. Confirming the recent conversation of the undersigned with
Major General L. C. Craigie, 9 December 1947, attached as listed below
are copies of the reports from this Headquarters concerning Flying
Discs.

2. Comments of Headquarters, Air Force on these letters have
never been received by this Command. Continued and recent reports
from qualified observers concerning this phenomenon still makes this
matter one of concern to Headquarters, Air Materiel Command. Intelli-
gence Department of this Command is continuing the collection and
analysis of all available reports.

FOR THE COMMANDING GENERAL:

H. M. McCOY
Colonel, USAF
Chief of Intelligence

2 Attach:
cc ltr to CG, AAF, dtd 23 Sept 47
subj "AMC Opinion Concerning
"Flying Discs""
cc ltr to CG, AAF, dtd 24 Sept 47
subj "Flying Discs"

SECRET
U-53791

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PAGE 2

form

This is a routing or tracking form for a document titled 'Analysis of 'Flying Disc' Reports' dated December 22, 1947.

SECRET
DATE: 22 Dec 47
FROM: OIN
SUSPENSE DATE:
NO.: 244391
FILE DESIGNATION AND DATE:
P 97084
TYPE: R&R/1
SMRY:
"Analysis of 'Flying Disc' Reports".
2 incls. 11
TO: MRD
DATE: 24 Dec 47
TO: Memo to AMC
Attn: TSDIN
DATE: 30 Dec 1947
TO:
DATE:
TO:
DATE:
TO:
DATE:
REPLIED OR INDORSED TO:
FILED (PLACE):
OTHER ACTION:
HQ AAF

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PAGE 3

memo

This memo from the U.S. Air Force directs the Air Materiel Command to establish a project (later named SIGN) to collect, evaluate, and distribute information regarding UFO sightings and atmospheric phenomena.

                                                                    Col Cook/2497/bm
                                                                    AFMRS

                                          (3)
                                          30 December 1947

SUBJECT: Flying Discs

TO:       Commanding General
          Air Materiel Command
          Wright Field, Dayton, Ohio
          Attn: TSDIN

1. Reference is made to three inclosures, memoranda from
your office to this headquarters, subject as above.

2. It is Air Force policy not to ignore reports of sightings
and phenomena in the atmosphere but to recognize that part of its
mission is to collect, collate, evaluate and act on information of
this nature.

3. In implementing this policy, it is desired that the Air
Materiel Command set up a project whose purpose is to collect,
collate, evaluate and distribute to interested government agencies
and contractors all information concerning sightings and phenomena
in the atmosphere which can be construed to be of concern to the
national security. It is desired that appropriate recommendations
be forwarded to this Headquarters, wherever action is indicated
which falls outside the field of the Air Materiel Command.

4. It is suggested that the activities of this project include
the preparation and distribution of an initial report, as recommended
in Inclosure 1, and that subsequent reports be issued on a quarterly
basis. Supplementary reports should be issued at more frequent inter-
vals should the need for same be indicated. This project is assigned
priority 2A, with a security classification of "restricted" and Code
Name of "SIGN". Where data of a classification higher than restricted
is handled by the project such data should be classified accordingly.
A complete interchange of data should be effected as recommended in
Inclosure 1.

BY COMMAND OF THE CHIEF OF STAFF:

                                          L. C. CRAIGIE
                                          Major General, U. S. Air Force
                                          Director of Research and Development
                                          Office, Deputy Chief of Staff, Materiel

4 Incls
1. Memo dtd 23 Sept '47
   from AMC to AC/AS-2
   (Gen Schulgen)
2. Memo dtd 24 Sept '47
   from AMC to AC
   (Gen McDonald)
3. Memo dtd 12 Dec '47
   to Gen Craigie
4. R&R from Dir of Intell, w/ [REDACTED]

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PAGE 4

memo

A military memorandum from the Department of the Air Force to the Fourth Air Force stating that marks on photographs of 'flying discs' are believed to be defects and requesting no further investigation.

AFOIR-CO/Col Garrett/lwd/4544
18 Dec '47

[CONFIDENTIAL]

Basic ltr fr Hq. Fourth Air Force, Hamilton Fld, Calif., dated 5 Dec '47,
subject: Flying Disc.

AFOIR-CO-5 1st Ind.
Dept. of the Air Force, Hq. USAF, Washington 25, D. C. 22 DEC 1947

TO: Commanding General, Fourth Air Force, Hamilton Field, California
[HANDWRITTEN: X062]

1. The marks appearing on the photographs inclosed in basic letter
are believed to be defects in the film, paper, or camera and not pictures
of "flying discs".

2. It is requested that no further investigation be made of this
incident.

FOR THE CHIEF OF STAFF:

DOUGLASS W. EISEMAN
Lt. Colonel, U.S.A.F.
Executive, Air Intelligence Requirements Div.
Directorate of Intelligence

Incls.
n/c

[HANDWRITTEN: 800.9 Flying Discs]

[STAMP: HQ. AAF 22 DEC 1947 AAC MAIL BRANCH]

1177846

File ref:
B/L fr Hq. Fourth Air Force, Hamilton Fld, Calif. dated 5 Dec '47
subj: as above

[TABLE: OFFICE SYMBOL 1. AFOIR-CO 2. AFOIR 4. 5. GRADE AND SURNAME OF COORDINATING OFFICERS Col Taylor [HANDWRITTEN: Eiseman] C. P. CABELL Col Garrett Brig. Gen., USAF]

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PAGE 5

form

This is a routing form for a letter regarding a 'Flying Disc' report involving Mary L Herren, originating from Hamilton Field, California.

DATE: 5 Dec 47 [REDACTED] CONFIDENTIAL NO.: 242134
FROM: Hamilton Fld, Calif
FILE DESIGNATION AND DATE:
1177846
TYPE: ltr
SMRY:
Flying Disc Mary L Herren
3 Incls:
TO: OCI DATE: 10Dec47
TO: AFOIR-CO DATE: 10Dec
TO: [HANDWRITTEN: 4 AF] DATE: 12/22/47
REPLIED OR INDORSED TO:
FILED (PLACE):
OTHER ACTION:
HQ AAF

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PAGE 6

memo

A memo from the Fourth Air Force regarding photographs of potential flying discs submitted by Mary L. Herren, noting that the objects in the photos likely resulted from defective film or camera equipment.

CONFIDENTIAL

HEADQUARTERS FOURTH AIR FORCE
Office of the Assistant Chief of Staff, A-2
Intelligence
Hamilton Field, California

4AFDA-3/1208-I
SUBJECT: Flying Disc.

TO: Chief of Staff
United States Air Force
Washington 25, D. C.
ATTN: Director of Intelligence

[HANDWRITTEN: X 201-1000]

1. The attached photographs were forwarded to this office by a very reliable source of information, obtained from a Mary L. Herren, 1728 S. W. Bidwell Avenue, Portland 2, Oregon. She advises these photographs were taken some time between November 5th and 12th, 1946, in the vicinity of Jefferson, Oregon, and points out the formation in the photographs as being objects she did not recall seeing herself but she thought might possibly be flying discs.

2. The objects referred to appear in the sky area of each accompanying photograph. The uniformity of the markings would tend to indicate that the camera or film used to take these pictures was possibly defective. No incidents of flying discs have been reported from that vicinity on or about the inclusive dates named above.

3. Mrs. Herren has requested the return of the negatives. If desired, this office will obtain the negatives and forward them at your request.

DONALD L. SPRINGER
Lt. Colonel, USAF
AC of S, A-2

3 Incls:
Photographs.

CONFIDENTIAL

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PAGE 7

memo

A memo from the Air Materiel Command to the Chief of Staff regarding flying disc incidents, requests for information on German scientists in Spain, and a status update on the plotting of UAP sightings.

HEADQUARTERS
AIR MATERIEL COMMAND
[HANDWRITTEN: OIR]
TSNAD-2B/ACL/amb
WRIGHT FIELD, DAYTON, OHIO
18 NOV 1947
[HANDWRITTEN: 11-145]
SUBJECT: Flying Discs
TO: Chief of Staff
United States Air Force
Washington 25, D. C.
ATTENTION: Office, Director of Intelligence
Lt Colonel George Garrett, Jr.

1. The inclosed newspaper clippings are submitted for your information and comment. The incident reported in Seattle appeared in the "Dayton Journal" on 12 November 1947, and should be followed up if possible.

2. The story by Lionel Shapiro regarding war weapons developed in Spain evidently was printed in a number of leading newspapers throughout the country. The significance of this article will be dependent upon certain essential elements for such alleged important developments, such as funds, materials, experimental testing facilities, and technological "know-how". The latter is supposed to be supplied by German scientists. The German scientists at this Hq indicate that no important scientists from Germany are working in Spain, and those mentioned in this article are not known to them.

3. If possible, therefore, an effort should be made to obtain names, qualifications, or any information that might help to identify the alleged German scientists working in Spain.

4. A brief statement was made in a recent intelligence report from Hq, USAF, AC/AS-2, regarding a flying disc incident in Alaska in September. The close range sighting reported should render a more detailed observation than what was reported, which also suggests a follow-up.

5. It is further requested that this office be advised as to progress being made on the plotting of all flying disc incidents to date, particularly in North America. It was understood that Dr. Carroll was going to plot these incidents, but no further word was received regarding this effort.

FOR THE COMMANDING GENERAL:
[HANDWRITTEN: File CD GARRETT Lt Col USAF]
H. M. MCCOY
Colonel, Air Corps
Chief of Intelligence
[HANDWRITTEN: [ILLEGIBLE] A.J. Hemmert, Jr. Col-USAF]

1 Incl
newspaper clippings
[HANDWRITTEN: [ILLEGIBLE] to AFOAI]
[HANDWRITTEN: 000.9 Flying discs]

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PAGE 8

memo

A memo from the Air Materiel Command to the Chief of Staff requesting that a previous letter regarding 'Flying Discs' be classified as 'secret' with the classification number U-48983.

HqAMC Form No. 10-514 (Rev. 1 Aug 45)

[HANDWRITTEN: OIR]

CONFIDENTIAL

HEADQUARTERS
AIR MATERIEL COMMAND

IN REPLY ADDRESS BOTH
COMMUNICATION AND EN-
VELOPE TO ATTENTION OF
FOLLOWING OFFICE SYMBOL:
TSNAD-2B

TSNAD-2B/ACL/amb
WRIGHT FIELD, DAYTON, OHIO

24 NOV 1947
[HANDWRITTEN: 12-8]

SUBJECT: Flying Discs

TO: Chief of Staff
United States Air Force
Washington 25, D. C.
ATTENTION: Office, Director of Intelligence
Lt Colonel George Garrett, Jr.

Reference letter, subject as above, dated 18 November 1947, it is
requested that immediate action be taken to appropriately mark or stamp
this correspondence with the classification "secret". This classifica-
tion number is as follows: U-48983

FOR THE COMMANDING GENERAL:

[HANDWRITTEN: A. J. Hemtert, Lt. Col. USAF]
H. M. McCOY
Colonel, USAF
Chief of Intelligence

[HANDWRITTEN: To D/I files
action completed
Lt Col Jarret - OIR-CO
12-10-47]

[HANDWRITTEN: 600.9 Phenomena]

CONFIDENTIAL

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PAGE 9

memo

This memo from the Air Materiel Command provides an official opinion on 'Flying Discs,' stating they are real, disc-shaped, and exhibit advanced flight characteristics that suggest they may be controlled.

HEADQUARTERS
AIR MATERIEL COMMAND
WRIGHT FIELD, DAYTON, OHIO

SUBJECT: AMC Opinion Concerning "Flying Discs"

TO: Commanding General
Army Air Forces
Washington 25, D. C.
ATTENTION: Brig. General George Schulgen
AC/AS-2

1. As requested by AC/AS-2 there is presented below the considered opinion of this Command concerning the so-called "Flying Discs". This opinion is based on interrogation report data furnished by AC/AS-2 and preliminary studies by personnel of T-2 and Aircraft Laboratory, Engineering Division T-3. This opinion was arrived at in a conference between personnel from the Air Institute of Technology, Intelligence T-2, Office, Chief of Engineering Division, and the Aircraft, Power Plant and Propeller Laboratories of Engineering Division T-3.

2. It is the opinion that:

a. The phenomenon reported is something real and not visionary or fictitious.

b. There are objects probably approximating the shape of a disc, of such appreciable size as to appear to be as large as man-made aircraft.

c. There is a possibility that some of the incidents may be caused by natural phenomena, such as meteors.

d. The reported operating characteristics such as extreme rates of climb, maneuverability (particularly in roll), and action which must be considered evasive when sighted or contacted by friendly aircraft and radar, lend belief to the possibility that some of the objects are controlled either manually, automatically or remotely.

e. The apparent common description of the objects is as follows:-

(1) Metallic or light reflecting surface.

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PAGE 10

memo

This page continues a memo regarding 'Flying Discs,' detailing their physical characteristics, the feasibility of constructing similar aircraft, and recommendations for a formal study involving various military and scientific organizations.

SECRET

Basic Ltr fr CG, AMC, WF to CG, AAF, Wash. D. C. subj "AMC Opinion Concerning "Flying Discs".

(2) Absence of trail, except in a few instances when the object apparently was operating under high performance conditions.

(3) Circular or elliptical in shape, flat on bottom and domed on top.

(4) Several reports of well kept formation flights varying from three to nine objects.

(5) Normally no associated sound, except in three instances a substantial rumbling roar was noted.

(6) Level flight speeds normally above 300 knots are estimated.

f. It is possible within the present U. S. knowledge -- provided extensive detailed development is undertaken -- to construct a piloted aircraft which has the general description of the object in subparagraph (e) above which would be capable of an approximate range of 7000 miles at subsonic speeds.

g. Any developments in this country along the lines indicated would be extremely expensive, time consuming and at the considerable expense of current projects and therefore, if directed, should be set up independently of existing projects.

h. Due consideration must be given the following:-

(1) The possibility that these objects are of domestic origin - the product of some high security project not known to AC/AS-2 or this Command.

(2) The lack of physical evidence in the shape of crash recovered exhibits which would undeniably prove the existence of these objects.

(3) The possibility that some foreign nation has a form of propulsion possibly nuclear, which is outside of our domestic knowledge.

3. It is recommended that:-

a. Headquarters, Army Air Forces issue a directive assigning a priority, security classification and Code Name for a detailed study of this matter to include the preparation of complete sets of all available and pertinent data which will then be made available to the Army, Navy, Atomic Energy Commission, JRDB, the Air Force Scientific Advisory Group, NACA, and the RAND and NEPA projects for comments and recommendations, with a preliminary report to be forwarded within 15 days of receipt of the data and a detailed report thereafter every 30 days as the investigation

SECRET
-2- U-39552

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PAGE 11

memo

This page is a continuation of a memo from Lieutenant General N. F. Twining regarding the investigation of 'Flying Discs' by the Air Materiel Command (AMC).

SECRET

Basic Ltr fr CG, AMC, WF to CG, AAF, Wash. D.C. subj "AMC Opinion Concerning "Flying Discs"

gation develops. A complete interchange of data should be effected.

4. Awaiting a specific directive AMC will continue the investigation within its current resources in order to more closely define the nature of the phenomenon. Detailed Essential Elements of Information will be formulated immediately for transmittal thru channels.

[HANDWRITTEN: N. F. TWINING]
N. F. TWINING
Lieutenant General, U.S.A.
Commanding

SECRET
-3-
U-39552

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PAGE 12

memo

This memo from the Air Materiel Command (AMC) provides an official opinion on 'Flying Discs,' stating they are real, potentially large, possibly natural phenomena, and exhibit characteristics suggesting they are controlled.

SECRET
COPY

TSDIN/HMM/ig/6-4100
23 September 1947

TSDIN

SUBJECT: AMC Opinion Concerning "Flying Discs"

TO: Commanding General
Army Air Forces
Washington 25, D. C.
ATTENTION: Brig. General George Schulgen
AC/AS-2

1. As requested by AC/AS-2 there is presented below the considered opinion of this Command concerning the so-called "Flying Discs". This opinion is based on interrogation report data furnished by AC/AS-2 and preliminary studies by personnel of T-2 and Aircraft Laboratory, Engineering Division T-3. This opinion was arrived at in a conference between personnel from the Air Institute of Technology, Intelligence T-2, Office, Chief of Engineering Division, and the Aircraft, Power Plant and Propeller Laboratories of Engineering Division T-3.

2. It is the opinion that:

a. The phenomenon reported is something real and not visionary or fictitious.

b. There are objects probably approximating the shape of a disc, of such appreciable size as to appear to be as large as man-made aircraft.

c. There is a possibility that some of the incidents may be caused by natural phenomena, such as meteors.

d. The reported operating characteristics such as extreme rates of climb, maneuverability (particularly in roll), and action which must be considered evasive when sighted or contacted by friendly aircraft and radar, lend belief to the possibility that some of the objects are controlled either manually, automatically or remotely.

e. The apparent common description of the objects is as follows:

(1) Metallic or light reflecting surface.

[HANDWRITTEN: Incl. #2]

SECRET
COPY
U-39552

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PAGE 13

memo

This document outlines characteristics of 'Flying Discs' and provides recommendations for a formal study, including the assignment of a security classification and code name, and the distribution of data to various military and scientific organizations.

SECRET

Basic Ltr fr CO, AMC, WP to CO, AAF, Wash. D.C. subj "AMC Opinion Concerning "Flying Discs".

(2) Absence of trail, except in a few instances when the object apparently was operating under high performance conditions.

(3) Circular or elliptical in shape, flat on bottom and domed on top.

(4) Several reports of well kept formation flights varying from three to nine objects.

(5) Normally no associated sound, except in three instances a substantial rumbling roar was noted.

(6) Level flight speeds normally above 300 knots are estimated.

f. It is possible within the present U. S. knowledge --- provided extensive detailed development is undertaken -- to construct a piloted aircraft which has the general description of the object in subparagraph (e) above which would be capable of an approximate range of 7000 miles at subsonic speeds.

g. Any developments in this country along the lines indicated would be extremely expensive, time consuming and at the considerable expense of current projects and therefore, if directed, should be set up independently of existing projects.

h. Due consideration must be given the following:-

(1) The possibility that these objects are of domestic origin - the product of some high security project not known to AC/AS-2 or this Command.

(2) The lack of physical evidence in the shape of crash recovered exhibits which would undeniably prove the existance of these objects.

(3) The possibility that some foreign nation has a form of propulsion possibly nuclear, which is outside of our domestic knowledge.

3. It is recommended that:-

a. Headquarters, Army Air Forces issue a directive assigning a priority, security classification and Code Name for a detailed study of this matter to include the preparation of complete sets of all available and pertinent data which will then be made available to the Army, Navy, Atomic Energy Commission, JRDB, the Air Force Scientific Advisory Group, NACA, and the RAND and NEPA projects for comments and recommendations, with a preliminary report to be forwarded within 15 days of receipt of the data and a detailed report thereafter every 30 days as the investi-

SECRET
COPY U-39552

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PAGE 14

memo

This document is a continuation of a letter from Lieutenant General N. F. Twining regarding the investigation of 'Flying Discs' by the Air Materiel Command (AMC), including a handwritten list of personnel who coordinated the letter.

SECRET
COPY

Basic Ltr fr CG, AMC, WF to CG, AAF, Wash. D.C. Subj "AMC Opinion Concerning "Flying Discs"

gation develope. A complete interchange of data should be effected.

4. Awaiting a specific directive AMC will continue the investigation within its current resources in order to more closely define the nature of the pehnomemon. Detailed Essential Elements of Information will be formulated immediately for transmittal thru channels.

N. F. TWINING
Lieutenant General, U.S.
Commanding

[HANDWRITTEN: This letter was coordinated by:
Col. Moore - Ch. Aircraft Lab
Mr. D A Dicky - Ch Propeller Lab
Gen D. L. Putt - Engr Div
Col. Minty - Ch Power Plant Lab
Gen Brentnall - T-3]

SECRET
COPY
U-39552

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PAGE 15

memo

A memo from TSNAD-2B to the Commanding General of the Army Air Forces regarding the 'Loedding Flying Disc' drawing and a report on Horten tailless aircraft in relation to the 'Flying Saucer' case.

SECRET
C O P Y

TSNAD-2B/ACL:eec
24 September 1947

TSNAD-2B

SUBJECT: "Flying Disc"

TO: Commanding General
Army Air Forces
Washington 25, D. C.

ATTN: AC/AS-2
Major General George McDonald

1. In compliance with General McDonald's telephone conversation, this date, to Colonel H. M. McCoy, T-2, Hq. AMC, attached herewith is a copy of a drawing entitled, "Loedding Flying Disc", designated LD-2. Because of patent rights involved, it is requested that a record be kept of all persons reviewing this drawing by witnessing with signatures and dates directly on the drawing.

2. This drawing should be returned to this office when it has served its purpose so that it can be turned over to the Patent Office Hq. AMC for official record. [HANDWRITTEN: X 452.1 Airplanes, Muc]

3. Inclosed herewith is also a report prepared by the Royal Aircraft Establishment, Technical Note, AERO 1703, which describes the Horten tailless aircraft. The following references are invited which is considered significant in relating the Horten brothers perspective thinking and accomplishments toward the alleged "Flying Saucer" case:

a. Page 5, Paragraph 4 and 6.
b. Page 6, Paragraph 1 and 7.
c. Page 26, Paragraph 3 and 10.
d. Page 27, Paragraph 12.
e. Page 28, Paragraphs 1 through 5.
f. Page 54, Photograph of Horten "Parabola".

SECRET
C O P Y
[HANDWRITTEN: Incl #7] U-39942

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PAGE 16

memo

This memo discusses the Horten aircraft designs and references a report from the U.S. Military attaché in Moscow regarding Russian production of aircraft based on the Horten VIII design.

SECRET
COPY

Basic ltr, dtd 24 Sep 47, to CG, Hq AAF, Wash, subj: "Flying Disc"

g. Page 69, The Horten VIII.
h. Pages 71 and 72, Photographs of the Horten IX Versions.
i. Page 74, Drawing of the "Parabola".

This document should also be returned when it has served its intended
purpose. [HANDWRITTEN: X 452.1 Airplanes - Russia]

4. A recent report from the U. S. Military athache, Moscow, USSR,
dated 9 June 1947, indicates that 1800 aircraft, directly or indirectly
based on the Horten VIII design (six engine pusher, having a wing spread
of 131 feet and a gross weight of approximately thirty-three thousand
pounds) are being built for bomber squadron use. The Russian version,
however, is jet propelled, reference report whose identification No. is
V-32291-8. [HANDWRITTEN: X 095]

5. The T-2 report "German Flying Wings Designed by Horten Brothers",
No. F-SU-1110-Nd, also inclosed herewith, may be retained by your office
if desired.

FOR THE COMMANDING GENERAL:

H. M. McCOY
Colonel, Air Corps
Deputy Commanding General
Intelligence (T-2)

3 Incls:
1. Drawing
2. RAE Tech Note, AERO 1703
3. T-2 Rpt, No. F-SU-1110-ND
[HANDWRITTEN: Inclosures mailed with original letter 19 Dec 47 Goodwin]

SECRET
COPY
U-39942

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PAGE 17

form

This is a Headquarters Army Air Forces correspondence reference form dated October 30, 1947, regarding intelligence requirements for flying saucer type aircraft, with a handwritten note mentioning German scientists.

FORM NO. MR-1 (2)
DATE: 30 Oct 47
452.1 Aircraft - Misc.
INDEX: 0009 Flying Saucer - Phenomena

TO: CSGID, Plans and Collection Branch
FROM: Chief, Air Intelligence Requirements Division, AC/S-2
SUMMARY: Intelligence Requirements on Flying Saucer Type Aircraft

D/F

FILED: 350.09 Intelligence
INDEXER: C
REMARKS: [HANDWRITTEN: Re: German scientists]

HEADQUARTERS ARMY AIR FORCES
CORRESPONDENCE REFERENCE FORM

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PAGE 18

memo

This is a 1st Indorsement memo from the Department of the Air Force to the Air Materiel Command, recommending that the case regarding Mrs. Merchant's theory on flying discs be closed without further interrogation.

CONFIDENTIAL
RESTRICTED

Wrtn 22 Oct 1947
B/L fm AMC, Subj: "Flying Discs", dtd 13 Oct 47 Lt Col Garrett/dl/4544
AFBIR-CO-5

AFBIR-CO-5 1st Ind
28 OCT 1947
Dept. of the Air Force, Hq., USAF, Washington 25, D. C.

To: Commanding General, Air Materiel Command, Wright Field, Ohio
(Attention: T-2)

1. A representative of this headquarters has contacted Lt. Colonel
Herbert C. Gee concerning Mrs. Merchant's theory on the flying discs,
as expressed to General Brentnall.

2. It is recommended that no action be taken to interrogate
Mrs. Merchant and that this case be closed.

BY ORDER OF THE SECRETARY OF THE AIR FORCE:

Incls - n/c

DOUGLASS W. EISEMAN
Lt. Colonel, Air Corps USAF
Executive, Air Intel, Requirements Division
Office of Ass't Chief of Air Staff-2

HO AAF
28 OCT 1947
AAG - MAIL BRANCH

[HANDWRITTEN: ace]

P 94846

CONFIDENTIAL
RESTRICTED

[HANDWRITTEN: 18]

OFFICE SYMBOL 1 AFOIR-CO 2 AFOIR 3
SIGNATURE OF
RESPONSIBLE OFFICER [HANDWRITTEN: Col Taylor] [HANDWRITTEN: Eiseman]
INTERNAL OFFICE
COORDINATION [HANDWRITTEN: Lt Col Garrett] [HANDWRITTEN: Geo. F. Schulgen Brig. Gen., USA]

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PAGE 19

memo

A memo from Air Materiel Command regarding the investigation of Mrs. Merchant's theories on 'Flying Discs', suggesting an interview with Lt Col Gee and requesting guidance on closing the case.

CONFIDENTIAL

Headquarters
AIR MATERIEL COMMAND

TSNAD-2B/ACL/amc
Wright Field, Dayton, Ohio

TSNAD-2B

13 Oct 1947

SUBJECT: "Flying Discs"

TO: Chief of Staff
United States Air Force
Washington 25, D. C.
ATTN: AC/AS-2
Lt Col George Garrett

1. Attached copies of communications are self-explanatory and indicate action taken to obtain additional information regarding subject. Assistance shown from Lt Col Herbert C. Gee was with reference to the social standing and character of Mrs. Merchant to determine justification for further investigation of her theories.

2. In view of Lt Col Gee's transfer to Washington, D. C., it is suggested that a representative from Headquarters, AC/AS-2 contact and interview him.

3. General Brentnall stated that Mrs. Merchant was extremely talkative and seemed quite intent on promoting a personal enterprise instead of cooperating to help solve an intelligence problem.

4. Comments and suggestions, therefore, regarding further action to interrogate Mrs. Merchant would be appreciated in order to close this case as soon as possible.

FOR THE COMMANDING GENERAL:

/s/ W. R. Clingeman, Col., A. C.
for
H. M. McDOY
Colonel, Air Corps
Deputy Commanding General
Intelligence (T-2)

2 Incls
1. Cy AMC, T-2 Ltr, 9/29/47,
"Flying Discs"
2. Cy 1st Ind, 10/2/47, fr
Hq. Kirtland Field,
Albuquerque, New Mexico

C
O
P
Y

CONFIDENTIAL

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PAGE 20

memo

A memo regarding a report from Mrs. Madeline Gwynne Merchant about a theory that the Russians are firing 'Flying Discs' from a laboratory in Central Mexico.

C
O
P
Y

CONFIDENTIAL

29 September 1947
13 Oct 1947

SUBJECT: "Flying Discs"

TO: Commanding Officer
Operating Location No. 16 of
731st AAFBU (101st AACS Sq)
Kirtland Field
Albuquerque, New Mexico
ATTN: Col. Howard G. Bunker

1. General Brentnall, during a recent visit at Las Vegas,
was contacted by a Mrs. Madeline Gwynne Merchant, Sante Fe, New
Mexico, who described what may be termed a novel theory concerning
"Flying Discs".

2. According to her thoery, "Flying Discs" are being fired
from a locality in Central Mexico from a laboratory which is
being operated by the Russians. She claims they are being aimed
at the United States for the purpose of sighting in on important
atomic energy and aircraft installations.

3. General Brentnall states that he does not have any
further interest in an interrogation of Mrs. Merchant since it is
not an engineering matter. However, he recommends that if Hq, Air
Materiel Command, T-2, wishes to sponsor an interrogation of this
nature that Col. Howard Bunker should be contacted to determine
the name and address of the colonel at Las Vegas who has knowledge
of this case. In view of General Brentnall's suggestion, no
direct contact will be made with Mrs. Merchant.

4. It is requested, therefore, that the name and address of
the above mentioned colonel be made available to this office as
soon as possible so that further action, as deemed advisable, can
be taken.

FOR THE COMMANDING GENERAL:

/s/ M. E. Goll
H. M. McCOY
Colonel, Air Corps
Deputy Commanding General
Intelligence (T-2)

C
O
P
Y

CONFIDENTIAL
[HANDWRITTEN: Incl #1]

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PAGE 21

memo

This is a 1st Indorsement memo from Kirtland Field to the Air Materiel Command clarifying the assignment history of Lt. Col. Herbert C. Gee and noting that no one in the vicinity has more information on Mrs. Merchant's theory than Brig. Gen. Brentnall.

CONFIDENTIAL

B/L fr Hqs, AMC, Wright Field, Dayton, Ohio, File TSNAD-2B, 29 Sep 47,
Subj: "Flying Discs"

1st Ind HGB:ms
HEADQUARTERS, Kirtland Field, Albuquerque, New Mexico, 2 October 1947

TO: Commanding General, Air Materiel Command, Wright Field, Ohio
ATTENTION: T-2

1. The officer referred to in Par. 3 is Lt. Col. Herbert C. Gee,
0-19717, who was formerly Commanding Officer at Los Alamos rather than
Las Vegas, as stated. Lt. Col. Gee is now stationed in the office,
Chief of Engineers, Civil Works Division, Washington, D. C.

2. There is no replacement for Lt. Col. Gee at Los Alamos and no
information is available to indicate that any individual in this vicinity
has more information concerning Mrs. Merchant's theory than Brig. Gen.
Brentnall of AMC who personally conducted an interview with her.

HOWARD G. BUNKER
Colonel, AC

[HANDWRITTEN: Incl # 2]

CONFIDENTIAL

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PAGE 22

form

This is a routing slip or file cover sheet for a letter dated October 13, 1947, from AMC Wright Field regarding 'Flying Discs'.

[REDACTED] CONFIDENTIAL
FROM: 13 Oct. 47
AMC W/Fld, Ohio.
TYPE: Ltr.
SMRY:
"Flying Discs"

W/ 2 Incls.
[HANDWRITTEN: 1st Ind]
TO: BIR
DATE: 15 Oct 47
TO: [HANDWRITTEN: AME]
DATE: [HANDWRITTEN: 10/20/47]
TO:
DATE:
TO:
DATE:
TO:
DATE:
REPLIED OR INDORSED TO: FILED (PLACE):
OTHER ACTION:
HQ AAF

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PAGE 23

memo

This is a 1st Indorsement memo from the Department of the Air Force to the Air Materiel Command regarding information requested about 'Flying Saucers'.

SECRET
AFBIR-CO/Lt Col Garrett/df/4544
6 Oct 46 [HANDWRITTEN: 10/8/47]

Basic: Ltr fr Hq, AMC, Wright Fld, Dayton, O. 24 Sept 47, Subj:
"Flying Saucers"

[HANDWRITTEN: 020.9 Flying Saucers]

REF: Cys of Inclsures in A-2 Files

P 94380

HO AAP
8-OCT 1947

AFBIR-CO-B
1st Ind
Department of the Air Force, Hq, USAF, Washington 25, D. C. 8 OCT 1947
TO: Commanding General, Air Materiel Command, Wright Field, Dayton, Ohio
ATTN: TSNAD-2B

Attached hereto is information requested in basic letter.

BY ORDER OF THE SECRETARY OF THE AIR FORCE:
DOUGLASS W. EISEMAN
Lt. Colonel, Air Corps USAF
Executive, Air Intel, Requirements Division
Office of Asst Chief of Air Staff-2
AFBIR-CO

3 Incls:
1. Memo for AC/AS-2, 26 Sept 47 w/Map
2. Memo for Chief, Air Intel Div, 2 Oct 47
3. Summary of Info on "Unidentified Flying Objects"

[HANDWRITTEN: Col Taylor]
[HANDWRITTEN: Eiseman]
[HANDWRITTEN: Lt Col Garrett/Gen USA]

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PAGE 24

memo

A memo from the Air Materiel Command requesting information from the Army Air Force regarding a reported 'Flying Saucer' radar sighting in Japan, as mentioned by Dr. Charles Carroll.

C
O
P
Y

HEADQUARTERS
AIR MATERIEL COMMAND

TSNAD-2B/ACL/amc
Wright Fld, Dayton, O.
24 Sept 47

TSNAD-2B

"Flying Saucers"

Commanding General, Army Air Force, Washington 25, D.C.
ATTN: AC/AS-2, Lt Col Garrett

[HANDWRITTEN: X 000.9 - Japan]

It is requested that this office be furnished all available
information concerning an alleged "Flying Saucer" flight sighting
made by a radar station in Japan. This incident was mentioned by
Dr. Charles Carroll during a conference in Brig Gen Schulgen's
office attended by Mr. A.C. Loedding, T-2 representative, on 5
September 1947.

FOR THE COMMANDING GENERAL:

/s/ M.E. Goll
/t/ H.M. McCOY
Colonel, Air Corps
Deputy Commanding General
Intelligence T-2

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PAGE 25

memo

A memorandum from the Air Intelligence Requirements Division to the Air Materiel Command regarding the transfer of a file on reported flying disc sightings for photostating.

CONFIDENTIAL
AFBIR-CO/LtCol.Garrett/rm/4544
8 Sept 47
AFBIR-CO
11 SEP 1947
SUBJECT: Reported Sightings of Flying Discs.
TO: Commanding General
Air Materiel Command
Wright Field, Dayton, Ohio
Attention: T-2.
1. As arranged verbally with Mr. Loedding, inclosed is the complete file maintained by this Office on reported sightings of Flying Discs.
2. This file is forwarded so that photostats may be made in order to provide your Command with a duplicate set of these sightings.
3. When photostating this material for your purpose, it will be appreciated if one extra set is made for this Office and returned at the same time the originals are returned.
4. This file, and the duplicates, should be returned as soon as possible to this Headquarters, Attention: AC/AS-2, Air Intelligence Requirements Division, Collection Branch.
BY COMMAND OF GENERAL SPAATZ:
[HANDWRITTEN: P 93805]
Incl
a/s in
par. 1.
[HANDWRITTEN: Phenomena.]
DOUGLASS W. EISEMAN
Lt. Colonel, Air Corps
Executive, Air Intel, Requirements Division
Office of Ass't Chief of Air Staff-2
[HANDWRITTEN: aco]
[HANDWRITTEN: m]
OFFICE SYMBOL: AFBIR-CO
GRADE AND SURNAME OF COORDINATING OFFICERS: Col. Taylor 3rd [HANDWRITTEN: Eiseman] Geo. F. Schulgen Brig. Gen., USA Lt Col Garrett

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PAGE 26

memo

A routing and record sheet from the Army Air Forces Air Intelligence Requirements Division detailing common characteristics of reported flying saucer sightings to determine if they are of U.S. origin.

AF HQ-33 (20 MAY 44) RESTRICTED HEADQUARTERS ARMY AIR FORCES ROUTING AND RECORD SHEET

SUBJECT: Flying Saucer Phenomena

TO: Deputy Chief of Air Staff for Research & Development DATE 22 August 1947
COMMENT No. 1
FROM: AC/AS-2, Air Intelligence Requirements Division Lt Col Garrett/nc/4544
Collection Branch

1. From a detailed study of certain reported observations on the flying saucers, selected for their veracity and reliability, it is apparent that several aspects of their appearance have a common pattern.

2. Before pursuing its investigation of these objects any further, this Office requests assurance that no research project of the Army Air Forces, at present being test-flown, has the following characteristics and that it may therefore be assumed the recent flying saucer "mystery" is not of United States origin:

a. Surface is metallic - indicating a metallic skin, at least.

b. When a trail is observed, it is a lightly colored blue-brown haze, similar to a rocket engine's exhaust. Contrary to a rocket of the solid type, one observation indicates that the fuel may be throttled, which would indicate a liquid rocket engine.

c. As to shape, all observations state that the object is circular, or at least elliptical, flat on the bottom and slightly domed on the top.

d. Size estimates place it somewhere near the size of a C-54 or Constellation as they would appear while flying at 10,000'.

e. Some reports describe two tabs located at the rear and symmetrical about the axis of flight motion.

f. Flights have been reported containing from three to nine objects, flying in good formation on each other, with speeds always above 300 knots.

g. The discs oscillate laterally while flying along, which could be snaking.

[HANDWRITTEN: Robert Taylor 3rd]
ROBERT TAYLOR 3RD
Colonel, Air Corps
Chief, Collection Branch
Air Intelligence Requirements Division
AC/AS-2

RESTRICTED
PAGE

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PAGE 27

form

This is a correspondence reference form from the Headquarters Army Air Forces dated August 5, 1947, requesting an FBI investigation into witnesses of 'Flying Discs'.

FORM NO. MR-1 (4)
DATE: 5 Aug 47

INDEX: 1000.9 Phenomena

TO: Chief, Intelligence Group, Intelligence Division, War Dept Gen Staff
FROM: Executive, Air Intel, Requirements Division, AC/AS-2
SUMMARY: Request for F. B. I. Investigation on Background of Certain Witnesses to "Flying Discs".

Memo

FILED: 333.5 Investigation
INDEXER: ejb
REMARKS:

HEADQUARTERS ARMY AIR FORCES
CORRESPONDENCE REFERENCE FORM

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PAGE 28

form

A routing and record sheet from the Army Air Forces dated August 29, 1947, stating that the Air Force has no research project matching the characteristics described in a previous comment regarding 'Flying Saucer Phenomena'.

RESTRICTED
HEADQUARTERS ARMY AIR FORCES
ROUTING AND RECORD SHEET
SUBJECT: Flying Saucer Phenomena
TO: Air Intelligence Requirements Division, AC/AS-2
Attn: Collection Branch
FROM: Deputy Chief of Air Staff for Research & Development
DATE AUG 29 1947
COMMENT No. 2
Mr Roddy/pmo/73481
[HANDWRITTEN: WSK ces]
The Army Air Forces has no research project with the characteristics described in Comment No. 1.
CONCURRENCE:
AFDRE [HANDWRITTEN: C. E. Imbrie]
AFDRE-2 [HANDWRITTEN: Lt Col E J Munson]
AFDRE-3 [HANDWRITTEN: Maj. Nickerson]
AFDRE-4 [HANDWRITTEN: Col Whitaker]
[HANDWRITTEN: J W Sessums Col AE]
CURTIS E. LEMAY
Major General, U. S. Army
Deputy Chief of Air Staff for
Research and Development
PAGE 2
RESTRICTED